If you have seen our documentary, you've met Tom and Jerry, a father and son from Wisconsin. When we first interviewed them over a year ago, they were riding through Indy headed to the Smoky Mountains together. When we learned they'd be coming back through Indy this month, we jumped at the chance to have lunch with 'em and shake hands again.We've been asked how we know these guys and here's how the planets originally aligned... While looking through online forums to prepare for our filming at Deals Gap, NC, I saw a random post that read: "First timer to the Dragon." We thought this guy might be a good subject to interview to get a good before-n-after perspective of the Dragon. It was Tom asking for advice on where to stay in the area, saying that he would be riding there with his Dad on their first trip to the Smokies. We were very surprised to learn that they happened to have planned their trip the same week as ours. They were even passing through Indy the day before we would leave town. Perfect. We intersected their route, had lunch in the Circle City, then filmed the "before" interview. We'd catch up to them a couple days later for their "after" interview in North Carolina.
We were thankful that the timing worked out so well, but even more thankful that they were some of the most genuine people we've met. They played such a special role in our documentary.
We couldn't thank them enough for their time...but they still insisted on buying lunch. We met up this last Monday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway on a carbon copy of the day we first filmed them. After lunch, we parted ways and wished them well until we meet again. Couldn't help but think how blessed they are to be riding together in good health and good spirits. On the way out of the Speedway, we wondered if we'll still be riding with our Dad when he's 75 yrs old? We certainly plan on it.
2 comments:
This is cool. I like getting to see updates on the folks from WTR. They feel almost like friends after watching the DVD and it's nice getting to hear how they are doing. BTW, thanks for answering the question of how you knew about Tom and Jerry. I had wondered about that. Keep up the good work, guys.
Since my father has long since passed on, I envy Tom and Jerry. They are both very luck to have this time together, and they know it. I wish them the best, God bless.
As a 50-something who's riden all his life, I hope to be riding still when "I'm" 75 years old! :-)
Take care,
TINK
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